This afternoon I went to the u-pick farm along 352 in Big Flats, NY. You’ve probably seen the sign along 86 when you’re headed east from Corning. Just take the Big Flats exit and keep going along 352 until see a stand on the left. Owner George Kapral will hook you up with a bucket and point you in the right direction. It’s a big place, and to reach the blueberries you drive out into the field until you reach another parking area along 86.
It’s a fun way to spend an afternoon, and if you love berries, it’s a great way to save money. I have a strategy when I do u-pick; unlike my girlfriend who just goes for quantity and speed (she fancies herself quite the expert picker). I survey the bushes looking for a bundle of big blue bunches. I check to see if they are ripe, soft (sweeter), and big. Of course I usually have half as much at the end of the trip, but I have all good ones. See the one in my girlfriend’s hand in that picture? That’s what I’m shooting for.
For some u-pick tips, here’s a handy flyer from the Tompkins County Cooperative Extension.
It’s blueberry season right now, so get on out there! Later on, George Kapral’s farm will have raspberries and blackberries. It has wide rows and it’s a big place (so you don’t have to worry about the bushes being over-picked). He’s open Monday-Friday 8am-6pm, Saturday 8am-4pm, Sunday 10am-4pm, but you can always call to verify the house at 607-936-1422. Do you have your own favorite u-pick place? Share in the comments below.
Myles Lasco
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PLEASE SHARE!!!! George Kapral. Good morning. I really hope this message reaches you. My name is Jill Smith. My boyfriend of 2 years was hired (along with 2 other people) by you, in response to your ‘Craigslist ad’. The ad states, 3$ per bush rate at “u pick, we pick” blueberry field. Yesterday, a young man worked along side my boyfriend and together they trimmed and tied 117 trees. A lady showed up while they were working stating she too was hired, but told (verbally) you would pay HER $5/bush. At the end of almost 5 hours work, a bunch of scrapes/scratches, and 117 trees at 3$ a tree. Do the math. My boyfriend (Thomas Harris ) called to report the accomplishments of the day. He was told, “well, I’ll pay you by the hour. I have a 3 o’clock Dr appointment. ..I’ll call you later.”
He called later alright. George Kapral told tom “I’ll give you 40$, in the morning, take it or leave it ”
I’ve been told “you have more money than God.” Let me assure you mr. Kapral, that does not give you right to treat hard working people like pieces of shit, and karma-is real. We will see your in small claims court. This is WRONG. And we will let everyone know what you’ve done until it is made right.
My son worked on that farm pruning blueberry bushes. He was supposed to get paid 3.00 a bush. My son did not get paid!!!!